Embedded Software Engineer, RF Payloads (Starshield)
SpaceX · Hawthorne, CA
About this role
**Embedded Software Engineer, RF Payloads (Starshield)** SpaceX is developing technologies to enable human life on Mars. Starshield leverages SpaceX’s Starlink technology and launch capability to support national security efforts—focused initially on **earth observation, communications, and hosted payloads**. As an **RF Software Engineer** on the Starshield team, you’ll work with RF, DSP, software, and hardware engineers (and end users) to design and build RF capabilities for **proliferated communications and remote sensing in low Earth orbit**. You’ll operate in a highly collaborative, fast-paced environment—iterating rapidly from design and demo to operational capability. **Responsibilities** - Drive program-level decisions on RF system designs - Research novel solutions for unique large-scale satellite RF systems - Design, build, validate, and automate RF test benches for full characterization of custom RF designs (e.g., VNA, VSG, VSA, spectrum analyzers, load pulls, RF power meters, high-speed oscilloscopes) - Design and build modular, scalable RF test infrastructure and automation sequences in **Python** and **C++** to support design validation, qualification, and production - Collaborate with hardware, FPGA, DSP, and software engineers to design and validate RF systems - Create electromagnetic simulation models of hardware to design and evaluate performance **Basic Qualifications** - Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or other engineering discipline - 1+ years professional experience in **C/C++ or Python** - 1+ years professional experience with radio test equipment (spectrum analyzers, VSA, VSG, network analyzers) - 1+ years professional RF experience with antennas or communication systems **Preferred Skills and Experience** - Master’s degree in electrical engineering or other engineering discipline - Experience testing active and passive RF devices (filters, amplifiers, mixers, up/downconverters) - RF concepts: gain, linearity, P1dB, ACLR, EVM, PAE, S-parameters, input/output matching - Software design principles, architecture, design patterns, unit/integration testing - Environmental test methodologies (e.g., thermal chambers, temperature forcing systems) - Troubleshooting interactions between software and hardware (network devices, lab instrumentation) - Experience with **Windows and Linux** - Configuration management and version control - **Active TS/SCI clearance** (or ability to obtain and maintain one) **Additional Requirements** - Active clearance may enable work on sensitive SpaceX missions; subject to pre-employment and random drug/alcohol testing - Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed **Compensation and Benefits** - **RF Software Engineer / Level I:** $135,000.00 – $160,000.00 per year - **RF Software Engineer / Level II:** $155,000.00 – $195,000.00 per year - Actual level and base salary determined case-by-case; those with an active clearance may receive a **10% differential** (up to an additional **$20,000 annually**) once briefed into a classified program - Benefits include medical/vision/dental, 401(k), disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, paid vacation and holidays, and more **ITAR Requirements** - Applicant must be a U.S. citizen/national, lawful permanent resident, refugee, asylee, or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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